‘Abu Tira’ replaces armed forces in N Darfur camp- sources

The Sudanese army withdrew from Fata Borno camp on Saturday after a presence of nearly six months. The armed forces moved to the city of Kutum and were replaced by the Central Reserve Forces, known as Abu Tira. Residents from the area also describe these forces as ‘pro-government militias’.Sources from Fata Borno in the locality of Kutum, North Darfur, told Radio Dabanga that upon their arrival to the camp, Abu Tira troops opened fire, which sparked fear and panic among the displaced and prompted them to flee towards neighboring valleys. Witnesses explained that the displaced who fled returned to the camp in the early evening. They revealed that the Abu Tira troops arrived on horses, camels and in Land Cruiser vehicles at about 7:00 pm on Saturday and looted cattle from the displaced. Speaking to Radio Dabanga on the same matter, the witnesses said that the displaced decided on Sunday morning to relocate to the city of Kutum but were persuaded by the camp’s sheikhs and representatives to wait.The camp’s sheikhs asked the displaced to wait until Kutum’s security committee discusses the matter of moving Abu Tira forces and its militias out of Fata Borno camp completely and to return the armed forces and the police to the camp. The police forces withdrew from the camp about six months ago.Camp representatives called on UNAMID to protect the civilians and displaced in Fata Borno. Also, it was announced on Sunday that the police would return to their posts in the city and markets but, according to sources, they have not yet resumed their duties. Residents told Radio Dabanga that the army remains responsible for securing safety in Kutum.Photo: Central Reserve Forces (file)Related: Sudan soldier killed by Abbala militant in N Darfur camp (14 Match 2013)